The editor’s pick of the top music festivals to rock your London socks off in 2012.
Camden Crawl
When: 4-6 May
Where: All over Camden
Highlights: Death in Vegas, Alabama 3, Sway, The Futureheads, The Raincoats, Gas Coombes.
This north-London indie haven never fails to intrigue. Launching the spring festival season, the Camden Crawl has a distinctly carnivalesque feel, showcasing comedy acts, busking performances, karaoke and plenty of alternative music.
www.thecamdencrawl.com
Lovebox
When: 15—17 June
Where: Victoria Park,London
Highlights: Lana Del Rey, Emeli Sande, Hot Chip, Crystal Castles, Kelis, Friendly Fires, Azealia Banks, Mike, Grace Jones.
It’s authentic, it’s righteous, it’s just so London. Knocked together by ol’ Groove Armada, it’s one of London’s hottest events. And in 2012, they’re celebrating a decade of love with a mix of hip hop, indie, punk and electro, and a huge dance line-up, you’re sure to love it!
www.lovebox.net
Homelanz
When: 16 June
Where: Boston Manor Park, London
Highlights: Alex Lloyd, Prime Circle, Kora, I Am Giant, Jason Norris, Jayson Norris, JT Mills Experience, Dave Gander, Anna Coddington.
Missing music from home? Now in its second year, this London festival showcases the biggest tunes from Aussie, Kiwi and Saffa bands in celebration of the best the Southern Hemisphere has to offer. Muck in and support your fellow Australasian businesses and entertainers.. many of the based in London, just like you.
www.homelanz.co.uk
Bluesfest
When: 26 June-6 July
Where: London and Manchester
Highlights: Sir Tom Jones, Van Morrison, Robert Cray, George Benson, Charles Bradley, Brand New Heavies, Ronnie Wood.
Love your Byron Bay blues? Well why not try it London style! Now in their second year, the Bluesfest brings a week long celebration of jazz and blues as it grooves its way across Britain’s northern and southern epicentres.
www.bluesfest.co.uk
Wireless
When: 6-8 July
Where: Hyde Park,London
Highlights: Rihanna, Calvin Harris, Drake, Jessie J, Deadmau5, Labyrinth, Hilltop Hoods.
Isn’t it awesome having Hyde Park just around the corner? First there’s Hard Rock Calling, then there’s Wireless. Carnival rides, music workshops and street theatre performances showcased alongside huge international headliners. And this year, some certain Adelaide homies will be bringing the Aussie beats to the party.
WIN tickets to Wireless festival 2012 feat: Drake and Hilltop Hoods
www.wirelessfestival.co.uk
Hard Rock Calling
When: 13-15 July
Where: Hyde Park, London
Highlights: Bruce Springsteen, Paul Simon, Soundgarden, Cold Chisel, The Mars Volta, Skindred, Guilemots, Iggy and the Stooges.
No Glasto, no worries! London has the perfect antidote, bringing the biggest bands to your backyard, and with Cold Chisel on the bill, it’s got to be the festie highlight of the year for us Aussies who love a beer and a bit of a sing. Plus should you pick up, forget the tent, it’s off to your place. Rock on and rock out, London!
WIN tickets to Hard Rock Calling feat: Soundgarden + Cold Chisel
WIN tickets to Hard Rock Calling feat Paul Simon performing Graceland
Interview: Don Walker opens up about the ‘new’ Cold Chisel
www.hardrockcalling.co.uk
South West Four
When: 25-26 August
Where: Clapham Common, London
Highlights: Chase and Status, Carl Cox, Skrillex, Zane Lowe, 2manydjs.
Keen for some funky beats? Head down to the Common and dance the weekend away at one of the world’s premiere electric festivals.
www.southwestfour.com
IMAGE: By Dean Lewins
Your Complete 2012 Music Festivals Guide
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Best London music festivals for 2012
Best British festivals for 2012
Best European festivals for 2012
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